Chen Hsong unveils extra-large press and expansion plans

HONG KONG (Dec. 19, 12 p.m. ET) — Hong Kong-based Chen Hsong Group has unveiled what it says is China’s largest two-platen injection molding machine. The company also revealed that it is expanding its manufacturing base in Shenzhen to accommodate strong global demand for large-tonnage presses.

According to Chen Hsong, the press is the largest of its kind in Asia, except Japan.

While the machine’s technical specifications are 50 percent larger than traditional presses, it has a 30 percent smaller footprint. The machine also received a level I energy rating (less than 0.4kw.h/kg.) from China’s national plastic machinery products quality supervision and inspection center.

Chen Hsong has licensed two-platen technology from Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Plastic Technology Co. Ltd. since 2010. But the company stressed that the Supermaster series was developed entirely in-house and is not related to Mitsubishi in any way.

Chen Hsong said in the news release that the new machine “marks a new era for Chinese domestic injection molding machines.”

The company also announced that it has received an order from an overseas buyer for a 6,500 tonne two-platen injection press with 75 kilograms of shot weight. According to Chen Hsong, that machine will break the record for all injections presses made in Asia — including Japan.

In order to accommodate growing demand for large machines that are commonly used by automotive, appliance, construction materials, water tank and packaging customers, Chen Hsong plans to expand its Shenzhen manufacturing base in 2013. It will add 100,000 square meters of manufacturing space, 75 percent of which could be used to make extra-large machines.

By the end of 2013, the company expects to be producing 25 large two-platen presses per month. The machines will be marketed to domestic molders, and also for export to Europe, North America and Japan.